Anti-clog suction tip apparatus and methods

0001The present application is a U.S. continuation patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to, international patent application PCT/US12/52413, filed in English on Aug. 25, 2012 and designating the United States, which international patent application is a nonprovisional of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, each of U.S. provisional patent application 61/527,123, filed Aug. 25, 2011, and U.S. provisional patent application 61/614,915, filed Mar. 23, 2012. The present application also is a nonprovisional of, and separately claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, each of U.S. provisional patent application 61/527,123, filed Aug. 25, 2011, and U.S. provisional patent application 61/614,915, filed Mar. 23, 2012. This international patent application and any application publication thereof, and both provisional patent applications, are incorporated by reference in their entirety herein. Moreover, the disclosures of the provisionals are contained in the Appendix attached hereto, which Appendix is incorporated by reference herein.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

0002All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0003The present invention generally relates to suction tips for use during surgical procedures for the removal of biological debris, such as blood, tissue, and the like, from a surgical site of a patient. More particularly, the present invention relates to suction tips with anti-clogging capabilities for removing biological debris lodged within the suction tips. It is believed that a need exists for improvement in surgical suction tips. This, and other needs, are addressed by one or more aspects of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0004The present invention includes many aspects and features. Moreover, while many aspects and features relate to, and are described in, the context of vacuum removal of biological debris in a surgical environment, the present invention is not limited to use only in vacuum removal of biological debris in a surgical environment, as will become apparent from the following summaries and detailed descriptions of aspects, features, and one or more embodiments of the present invention.

0005Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention relates to an anti-clog suction tip apparatus. An exemplary such apparatus includes a suction tip assembly, including a suction tip having a suction opening at a first end thereof for removing debris through suction, a hose attachment portion for attaching the suction tip assembly to a suction source, and an ejection wire channel; and an ejection wire assembly, including an ejection wire disposed within the channel and an ejection button integral with or otherwise connected to the ejection wire. Furthermore, applying a force to the ejection button advances the ejection wire through the ejection wire channel such that an end portion of the ejection wire enters the suction tip. Additionally, the end portion of the ejection wire entering the suction tip expels or dislodges debris in the suction tip through the suction opening.

0006In a feature of this aspect of the invention, the end portion of the ejection wire includes a ball tip.

0007In another feature, the suction tip assembly includes a handle.

0008In still another feature, the suction tip assembly includes a vacuum tunnel opening.

0009In yet another feature, the ejection wire is inserted into the ejection wire channel through a wire insertion opening.

0010In a variation of this feature, wire insertion opening is threaded.

0011In still another feature, the ejection wire assembly further comprises an inner member disposed between the ejection wire and the ejection button, an outer member partially surrounding the inner member, and a biasing spring.

0012In a variation of this feature, the outer member is threaded.

0013In another variation, the biasing spring biases the ejection button away from the outer member.

0014In yet another feature, when dislodging debris in the suction opening, the end portion of the ejection wire preferably does not extend more than 3 millimeters beyond the suction opening. In alternate variations of this feature, the ejection wire does extend more than 3 millimeters.

0015Another aspect of the present invention relates to an anti-clog suction tip apparatus. An exemplary such apparatus includes a suction tip, an interior of the suction tip defining a suction channel for the removal of debris through suction; and an ejection wire assembly removably attachable to the suction tip and transitionable between a retracted position and an advanced position. Furthermore, in the retracted position, the ejection wire assembly is not disposed within the suction channel, and in the advanced position, the ejection wire assembly is at least partially disposed within the suction channel.

0016In a feature of this aspect, the ejection wire assembly extends within an area of the suction channel in which a clog exists for dislodging and clearing the clog. The ejection wire assembly may extend to and through a suction opening of the suction tip for dislodging a clog in the suction tip.

0017In another aspect of the invention, an anti-clog suction tip apparatus comprises a suction tip, an interior of the suction tip defining a suction channel for the removal of debris through suction; and means for clearing debris that clogs the suction tip (which “means for” language is intended to invoke §112, ¶ 6).

0018In another aspect, an anti-clog suction tip apparatus comprises a suction tip assembly; and an ejection assembly for ejecting debris when the suction tip becomes clogged.

0019In another aspect of the invention, an eco-friendly system comprises an anti-clog suction tip apparatus formed from single-use disposable components for use with a body which, when combined with the body, form the anti-clog suction tip apparatus. The body is reusable after autoclaving for sterilization.

0020In another aspect, a kit comprises disposable components for use with a body of an anti-clog suction tip apparatus which, when combined with the body, form an anti-clog suction tip apparatus. In this respect, at least the body is reusable, and additional components of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus that are not part of the kit also are reusable. The body and reusable parts preferably are autoclaved before reuse.

0021Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of clearing biological debris from a surgical site. An exemplary such method includes providing a suction tip apparatus, including an interior defining a suction channel, an ejection wire not disposed within the suction channel, and an ejection button; attaching the suction tip apparatus to a suction source; activating the suction source to create a vacuum force in the suction tip apparatus; placing the suction tip apparatus near the debris; causing the vacuum force to pull the debris into the suction tip apparatus; applying force to the ejection button, causing a tip of the ejection wire to enter the suction channel; and dislodging, via the tip of the ejection wire, debris clogging the suction channel.

0022Additional aspects of the present invention include apparatus and methods for dislodging biological debris clogged in a suction tip, as substantially shown and described herein and in the drawings. Additional features thereof are also shown an described herein and in the drawings.

0023In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of the present invention, it should be noted that the present invention further encompasses the various possible combinations and subcombinations of such aspects and features. Thus, for example, any aspect may be combined with an aforementioned feature in accordance with the present invention without requiring any other aspect or feature.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0024One or more preferred embodiments of the present invention now will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

0025<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a schematic illustration of a side view of a preferred anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention.

0026<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a schematic illustration of a side view of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, wherein the ejection wire assembly is shown in an advanced position.

0027<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a schematic illustration of a side view of a suction tip assembly shown as part of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>.

0028<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a schematic illustration of a top view of the suction tip assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>.

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of the suction tip assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> taken along the line <b>4</b>-<b>4</b>.

0030<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a </i>is a schematic illustration of a side view of the ejection wire assembly shown as part of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, wherein the ejection wire assembly is shown in a retracted position.

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b </i>is a schematic illustration of a side view of the ejection wire assembly shown as part of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, wherein the ejection wire assembly is shown in an advanced position.

0032<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7-16</figref> schematically illustrate another preferred anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>310</b>, and components thereof, in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention.

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7-16</figref> schematically illustrate another preferred anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>310</b>, and components thereof, in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention.

0034<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17-25</figref> schematically illustrate another preferred anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>410</b>, and components thereof, in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention.

0035<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref> illustrate the packaging of disposable slider, spring, stylet, and tip, with respect to the preferred embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17-25</figref>.

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 27-30</figref> illustrate steps of assembling the apparatus <b>410</b> using the disposable components of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref>.

0037<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 31-43</figref> schematically illustrate another preferred anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>510</b>, and components thereof, in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention.

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 44</figref> illustrate the packaging of a disposable stylet with integral screw cap and tip, with respect to the preferred embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 31-43</figref>.

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 45-48</figref> illustrate steps of assembling the apparatus <b>510</b> using the disposable components of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 44</figref>.

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 49</figref> illustrates contemplated relative size relations between the three bodies <b>322</b>,<b>422</b>,<b>522</b>.

0041<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref> schematically illustrates yet another preferred embodiment of an anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>610</b> in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention, shown being held in hand for use by a healthcare professional.

0042<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 51</figref> schematically illustrates a top view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

0043<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 52</figref> schematically illustrates a side elevational view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

0044<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 53</figref> schematically illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

0045<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 54</figref> schematically illustrates a back elevational view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

0046<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 55</figref> schematically illustrates in cross-section a side elevational view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>, wherein the ejection wire assembly is not deployed.

0047<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 56</figref> schematically illustrates an enlarged view of the distal end of the suction tip of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 55</figref>, showing the location of the tip of the ejection wire assembly received completely within the ejection wire channel.

0048<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 57</figref> schematically illustrates in cross-section a side elevational view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>, wherein the ejection wire assembly is deployed.

0049<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 58</figref> schematically illustrates an enlarged view of the distal end of the suction tip of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 57</figref>, showing the location of the tip of the ejection wire assembly extending from the ejection wire channel, through the suction channel, and out of the suction opening.

0050<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 59</figref> schematically illustrates a perspective rear view, in cross-section, of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

0051<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 60</figref> schematically illustrates a perspective front view, in cross-section, of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0052As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.

0053Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

0054Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the appended claims rather than the description set forth herein.

0055Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.

0056Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6 in the United States, no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claim element.

0057Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having at least one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” In contrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes “a picnic basket having only one apple.”

0058When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese without crackers”, “a picnic basket having crackers without cheese”, and “a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well as describes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese.”

0059Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.

0060<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a side view of a preferred anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a side view of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. The apparatus <b>10</b> is generally comprised of a suction tip assembly <b>12</b> and a ejection wire assembly <b>14</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a side view of the suction tip assembly <b>12</b> without the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a top plan view of the suction tip assembly <b>12</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. Conversely, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6</figref><i>a </i>and <b>6</b><i>b </i>each includes a side view of the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> without the suction tip assembly <b>12</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a </i>shows the ejection wire assembly in a retracted position, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b </i>shows the ejection wire assembly in an advanced or extended position.

0061With particular reference now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2-4</figref>, the suction tip assembly <b>12</b> includes a suction tip <b>16</b> having a suction opening <b>18</b> at a distal end thereof and a hose attachment portion <b>20</b> at a proximal end thereof. The anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> is adapted to attach to a hose at the hose attachment portion, with the hose having a suction source attached thereto. Suction applied through the hose is directed via a suction channel <b>17</b> through the suction tip assembly <b>12</b> to the suction opening <b>18</b> of the suction tip <b>16</b>, whereby the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> is useful during surgical procedures for the removal of blood, tissue, and the like, from a surgical site.

0062The suction tip assembly <b>12</b> further includes a handle <b>22</b> and an ejection wire conduit <b>24</b> that defines at least a portion of an ejection wire channel <b>25</b> extending along the suction tip <b>16</b>. Preferably, at least a portion of the ejection wire conduit <b>24</b> extends in abutment with the suction tip <b>16</b> and may be integrally formed therewith, or separately formed and adhered or otherwise attached to the suction tip <b>16</b>. The ejection wire channel <b>25</b> preferably extends from a wire insertion opening <b>26</b> located on the handle <b>22</b> to a wire exit opening <b>28</b> of the ejection wire conduit <b>24</b> at the suction tip <b>16</b> proximate the suction opening <b>18</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of the suction tip assembly <b>12</b> taken along the line <b>4</b>-<b>4</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> and shows the ejection wire channel <b>25</b> in relation to the suction channel <b>17</b> of the suction tip <b>16</b>.

0063In at least one preferred embodiment, the wire insertion opening <b>26</b> is a threaded opening. Furthermore, in at least one preferred embodiment, the handle <b>22</b> includes a vacuum tunnel opening <b>29</b>. Covering the vacuum tunnel opening <b>29</b> during use of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> increases the vacuum pressure exerted at the suction opening <b>18</b>.

0064As perhaps best seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6</figref><i>a </i>and <b>6</b><i>b</i>, the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> comprises an ejection wire <b>30</b>, an outer member <b>32</b>, an inner member <b>33</b>, an ejection button <b>34</b> (also sometimes referred to as a ‘tab’), and a biasing spring <b>36</b>. In one or more preferred embodiments, the ejection wire <b>30</b> comprises a semi-rigid cable extending from the inner member <b>33</b>. The ejection wire <b>30</b> includes a small ball tip <b>38</b> at the end thereof to prevent unintended injury during use.

0065Furthermore, a first end of the inner member <b>33</b> preferably is integrally formed with the ejection button <b>34</b> and a second end of the inner member <b>33</b> is attached to the ejection wire <b>30</b>. The outer member <b>32</b> also encompasses at least a portion the inner member <b>33</b> (shown in dotted lines), and the biasing spring <b>36</b> encircles a portion of the inner member <b>33</b> and is configured to bias the ejection button <b>34</b> away from the outer member <b>32</b> toward the retracted position shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a. </i>

0066In some alternative embodiments, the ejection button is formed separately from and is connected to the ejection wire by an inner member or other element.

0067As seen best in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b</i>, assuming the outer member <b>32</b> is immobile, as force is applied to the ejection button <b>34</b>, the ejection button <b>34</b>, the inner member <b>33</b>, and the ejection wire <b>30</b> advance in the direction of the applied force and the biasing spring <b>36</b> contracts. Upon removal of the force, the biasing spring <b>36</b> returns to its relaxed position, forcing the ejection button <b>34</b>, the inner member <b>33</b> and the ejection wire <b>30</b> back to the retracted position of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a. </i>

0068Returning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> is shown threadably attached to the suction tip assembly <b>12</b> and in a retraced position. To affix to the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> to the suction tip assembly <b>12</b>, the ejection wire <b>30</b> is first inserted into the wire insertion opening <b>26</b> on the handle. Next, the ejection wire <b>30</b> is slid forward to occupy the ejection wire channel <b>25</b>. Preferably, only upon full insertion of the ejection wire <b>30</b> into the ejection wire channel <b>25</b> can the outer member <b>32</b> be threadably secured to the cable insertion opening <b>26</b> in the handle <b>22</b>.

0069As discussed previously with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6</figref><i>a </i>and <b>6</b><i>b</i>, the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> is placed in an advanced position by applying force to the ejection button <b>34</b>. As force is applied, the ejection wire <b>30</b> moves forward. When the ejection wire <b>30</b> is advanced forward, the ball tip <b>38</b> passes through the wire exit opening <b>28</b> into the suction tip <b>16</b> and dislodges any biological debris clogging the suction tip <b>16</b>, such as blood, tissue, and the like, to unclog the suction tip <b>16</b>. Such debris may be expelled through the through the suction opening <b>18</b>. In at least one preferred embodiment, the ball tip <b>38</b> does not extend more than 3 millimeters beyond (protract from) the suction opening <b>18</b> when the ejection wire <b>30</b> is fully advanced by depression of the ejection button <b>34</b>.

0070Preferably, the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> is provided in a sterile packaging for use in a surgical environment. The packaging may include vacuum packaging of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b>, or any or all of the components thereof, in a sterile manner. The sterile packaging in which the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> is provided is opened by sterile technique in the surgical environment, and the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> is removed from the packaging and placed on a sterile table to await use by a surgeon or surgical assistant. A hose attached to a suction source is secured to the hose attachment portion <b>20</b>. Upon activation of the suction source, a vacuum is produced within the suction tip <b>16</b>, enabling the suction tip <b>16</b> to be used for removing biological debris, such as blood, tissue, and the like, from the operation site.

0071During the course of use, it is believed that the suction tip <b>16</b> is likely to become clogged with biological debris. Immediate ejection of the debris is oftentimes necessary in the surgical environment. To remove unwanted debris from the suction tip <b>16</b>, the user applies force to the ejection button <b>34</b>, causing the ejection wire <b>30</b> to advance within the ejection wire conduit <b>24</b> through the wire exit opening <b>28</b> and into the suction channel <b>17</b> within the suction tip <b>16</b>, thereby expelling through the suction opening <b>18</b> any debris that may be clogged in the suction tip <b>16</b>. Some debris that is dislodges also may be suctioned through the suction tip <b>16</b>. To retract the ejection wire <b>30</b>, the user removes the applied force from the ejection button <b>34</b>. The biasing spring <b>36</b> causes the ejection button <b>34</b> to return to its initial position, thus retracting the ejection wire <b>30</b>. When retracted, the ejection wire <b>30</b>, and in particular the ball tip <b>38</b>, is retained within the ejection wire channel <b>25</b> and does not obstruct normal suctioning of the debris during use of the apparatus <b>10</b>.

0072In one or more preferred embodiments, the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> is intended to be disposed after a single surgical use. After use, the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>10</b> will include biological and potentially hazardous debris, and thus, should be disposed according to any applicable HAZMAT protocol.

0073In at least one preferred embodiment, a secondary wire is supplied to be inserted into the suction tip <b>16</b> through the suction opening <b>18</b> to more completely clear debris if the ejection wire <b>30</b> is unable to completely expel the debris. It is further contemplated that alternative ejection wires may be included that have different sizes, dimensions, and tip profiles, and that have wires of different diameters and different rigidity characteristics. Section of a particular ejection wire can be made in accordance with surgeon preference.

0074As previously mentioned, the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> is shown secured to the suction tip assembly <b>12</b> to for the apparatus <b>10</b>, and is disposed in a retracted position, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. In contrast, the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> is shown deployed in an advanced position in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6</figref><i>a </i>and <b>6</b><i>b </i>are side views of the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> wherein the ejection wire assembly <b>14</b> in a retracted position in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a </i>and in an advanced position in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b. </i>

0075Additional preferred embodiments of anti-clog suction tip apparatus in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention are shown in the remaining figures. In particular, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7-16</figref> show views of another anti-clog suction tip apparatus and components in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention; <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17-30</figref> show views of another anti-clog suction tip apparatus and components in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention; <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 30-48</figref> show views of another anti-clog suction tip apparatus and components in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention; <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 49</figref> shows bodies three of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7-48</figref>; and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50-60</figref> show views of another anti-clog suction tip apparatus and components in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention.

0076With reference first to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7-16</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a schematic illustration of a side view of a preferred anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>310</b> in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention. Various components of the anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>310</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 8-16</figref>. The apparatus <b>310</b> includes a slider <b>312</b>, springs <b>314</b>, stylet <b>316</b>, screw cap <b>318</b>, conversion tip <b>320</b>, and body <b>322</b>. The slider <b>312</b>, spring <b>314</b>, stylet <b>316</b>, a screw cap <b>318</b>, and conversion tip <b>320</b> are intended to be disposable after use in a single operation. The body <b>322</b> is intended to be autoclaved and, thus, available for use in multiple operations. The body <b>322</b> includes a forward end portion <b>324</b> and back end portion <b>326</b>. A suction neck <b>333</b> and a stylet neck <b>335</b> generally coextend from the body <b>322</b>, with a vacuum passage extending through the suction neck <b>333</b> to the tip <b>320</b>, and with a stylet passage extending through the stylet neck <b>335</b> to the tip <b>320</b>. It will be appreciated that the ventral side of the suction neck <b>333</b> abuts the dorsal side of the stylet neck <b>335</b>. A side cross-sectional view of the body <b>322</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, which reveals the suction passage <b>328</b> and stylet passage <b>330</b> that extend through the body <b>322</b>. A top view of the body <b>322</b> and slider mechanism <b>312</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>. The stylet <b>316</b> and screw cap <b>318</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>. The slider mechanism <b>312</b>, which includes two parallel posts with springs, is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> from a side thereof, and is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> from the back looking forward. Similarly, the slider mechanism <b>312</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> from a side thereof, wherein the stylet <b>316</b> and screw cap <b>318</b> have been attached in threading engagement therewith, and also is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> from the back looking forward.

0077Steps for inserting the stylet and screw cap and otherwise making the apparatus <b>310</b> ready for use are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10</figref>, <b>15</b>, and <b>16</b>. The steps include removing the stylet <b>316</b> and the screw cap <b>318</b> (preferably pre-attached) from a sterile package (represented by <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>); pushing the slider mechanism <b>312</b> toward the back end portion <b>326</b> of the body <b>322</b> and inserting the stylet <b>318</b> through an opening in the slider mechanism <b>312</b> into the stylet cavity of the body <b>322</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>); and securing the stylet <b>316</b> to the slider mechanism <b>312</b> by screwing the screw cap <b>318</b> into threading engagement with the slider mechanism <b>312</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>).

0078With reference first to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17-29</figref>, another anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>410</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> and various components thereof are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18-29</figref>. The apparatus <b>410</b> includes a slider <b>412</b>, spring <b>414</b>, stylet <b>416</b>, tip <b>420</b>, and body <b>422</b> and casing <b>423</b>. The slider <b>412</b>, spring <b>414</b>, stylet <b>416</b>, and tip <b>420</b> are intended to be disposable after use in a single operation. The body <b>422</b> and casing <b>423</b> are intended to be autoclaved and, thus, available for use in multiple operations. The body <b>422</b> includes a forward end portion <b>424</b> and back end portion <b>426</b>. A suction neck <b>433</b> and a stylet neck <b>435</b> generally coextend from the body <b>422</b>, with a vacuum passage extending through the suction neck <b>433</b> to the tip <b>420</b>, and with a stylet passage extending through the stylet neck <b>435</b> to the tip <b>420</b>. It will be appreciated that the ventral side of the suction neck <b>433</b> abuts the dorsal side of the stylet neck <b>435</b>. A side cross-sectional view of the tip <b>420</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref>, which reveals the merger of the stylet passage and the suction passage within the tip <b>420</b>; and a side view of the tip <b>420</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>. A top view of the body <b>422</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref>; and a top view of the body <b>422</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>. The slider <b>412</b>, spring <b>414</b>, and stylet <b>416</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> from the top, and in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> from the side. A side view of the casing <b>423</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref>; and a top view of the casing <b>423</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref>. The casing removably attaches to the body <b>422</b> and, when the casing <b>423</b> is attached, partially surrounds and encases the body <b>422</b>.

0079Steps for installing the disposable components and otherwise making the apparatus <b>410</b> ready for use are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 27-30</figref>. The steps include removing the slider <b>412</b>, spring <b>414</b>, and stylet <b>416</b> components from the sterile package shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref>, which components come pre-attached as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref>; pivoting the casing <b>423</b> downwardly away from the body <b>422</b> and inserting the stylet <b>416</b> into the cavity of the body <b>422</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref>; and fitting and sliding the slider <b>412</b> over the body <b>422</b>, pushing it forward as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref>; and closing the casing <b>423</b> back onto the body <b>422</b> in snap fit engagement as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref>.

0080With reference first to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 31-43</figref>, another anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>510</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> and various components thereof are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 32-43</figref>. The apparatus <b>510</b> includes a slider <b>512</b>, spring <b>514</b>, stylet <b>516</b> with included screw head, tip <b>520</b>, and body <b>522</b>. The stylet <b>516</b> and tip <b>520</b> are intended to be disposable after use in a single operation. They stylet <b>516</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 43</figref>. The slider <b>512</b>, spring <b>514</b>, and body <b>522</b> are intended to be autoclaved and, thus, available for use in multiple operations. Indeed, these components are preferably press-fit together at the point of manufacture. The body <b>522</b> includes a forward end portion <b>524</b> and back end portion <b>526</b>. A casing <b>523</b> including a handle grip portion is also provided that is removably attached to the body <b>522</b>. A suction neck <b>533</b> and a stylet neck <b>535</b> generally coextend from the body <b>522</b>, with a vacuum passage extending through the suction neck <b>533</b> to the tip <b>520</b>, and with a stylet passage extending through the stylet neck <b>535</b> to the tip <b>520</b>. It will be appreciated that the ventral side of the suction neck <b>533</b> abuts the dorsal side of the stylet neck <b>535</b>. A side cross-sectional view of the tip <b>520</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref>, which reveals the merger of the stylet passage and the suction passage within the tip <b>520</b>; and a side view of the tip <b>520</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33</figref>. A side view of the body <b>522</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref>; and top views of the body <b>522</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 35 and 36</figref>. The slider <b>512</b> and spring <b>514</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37</figref> from the top; in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38</figref> from the side; and back view looking forward in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref>. A side view of the casing <b>523</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 40</figref>; and a top view of the casing <b>523</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41</figref>. The casing removably attaches to the body <b>522</b> and, when the casing <b>523</b> is attached, partially surrounds and encases the body <b>522</b> and defines a handle grip for the apparatus <b>510</b>. A top view of the body <b>522</b> and casing <b>523</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 42</figref>.

0081Steps for installing the disposable components and otherwise making the apparatus <b>510</b> ready for use are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 45-48</figref>. The steps include removing the stylet <b>516</b> with screw head from a sterile package <b>550</b> (shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 44</figref>), which step is represented in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 45</figref>; inserting the stylet <b>516</b> into the cavity of the body <b>522</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 46</figref>; securing the stylet to the slider by screwing the head of the stylet into a threaded opening of the slider, as represented in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 47</figref>; and pushing the slider <b>512</b> forward to advance the stylet <b>516</b> through the stylet passage and into the suction passage for dislodging debris when using the apparatus <b>510</b>, as represented in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 48</figref>.

0082As represented in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 49</figref>, it is contemplated that body <b>322</b> is the largest of the three bodies <b>322</b>,<b>422</b>,<b>522</b>; body <b>522</b> is of relative intermediate size; and body <b>422</b> is the smallest of the three bodies <b>322</b>,<b>422</b>,<b>522</b>.

0083<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref> schematically illustrates yet another preferred embodiment of an anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>610</b> in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention, shown being held in hand for use by a healthcare professional. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 51</figref> schematically illustrates a top view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>; <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 52</figref> schematically illustrates a side elevational view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>; <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 53</figref> schematically illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>; and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 54</figref> schematically illustrates a back elevational view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

0084Additionally, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 55</figref> schematically illustrates in cross-section a side elevational view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>, wherein the ejection wire assembly is not deployed; and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 56</figref> schematically illustrates an enlarged view of the distal end of the suction tip of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 55</figref>, showing the location of the tip of the ejection wire assembly received completely within the ejection wire channel. In contrast, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 57</figref> schematically illustrates in cross-section a side elevational view of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>, wherein the ejection wire assembly is deployed; and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 58</figref> schematically illustrates an enlarged view of the distal end of the suction tip of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 57</figref>, showing the location of the tip of the ejection wire assembly extending from the ejection wire channel, through the suction channel, and out of the suction opening.

0085<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 59</figref> schematically illustrates a perspective rear view, in cross-section, of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 60</figref> schematically illustrates a perspective front view, in cross-section, of the apparatus <b>610</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 50</figref>.

0086The anti-clog suction tip apparatus <b>610</b> is similar in structure, operation and use to apparatus and methods previously described herein. In this respect, the apparatus <b>610</b> includes a ejection wire assembly comprising an ejection wire <b>630</b>, an outer member <b>632</b>, an inner member <b>633</b>, an ejection button <b>634</b> (also sometimes referred to as a ‘tab’ or ‘slider’), and a biasing spring <b>636</b>. The ejection wire preferably is a semi-rigid cable and, in apparatus <b>610</b>, the ejection wire is attached to the outer member (which slides relative to the inner member <b>633</b> comprising a fixed shaft). Moreover, the ejection button <b>634</b> is part of the outer member <b>632</b> and, preferably, is injection molded or otherwise integrally formed therewith. The ejection wire <b>630</b> includes a small ball tip <b>638</b> at the end thereof to prevent unintended injury during use, as well as to provide an enlarged end for clearing of the suction channel when the ball tip is deployed. When deployed, the ball tip extends through the suction channel <b>617</b> and out of the suction opening <b>618</b> for dislodging debris. When not deployed, the ball tip rests within the ejection wire channel <b>625</b>.

0087Most of the components of apparatus <b>610</b> preferably are formed from conventional molding processes from ABS (medical grade) Cycolac HMG94MD resin, or equivalent. The ball tip preferably comprises a plunger ball made of nylon or stainless steel, preferably includes an opening extending therethrough, and is physically attached by swaging at the end of the ejection wire. The ejection wire preferably is made from 302 stainless steel, or equivalent. The overall weight of the apparatus <b>610</b> preferably is approximately 0.8 ounces.

0088A perceived advantage of one or more preferred anti-clog suction tip apparatus disclosed herein is the location of the ejection wire assembly out of a user's line of sight so as not to obstruct the user's view during a surgical procedure.

0089Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.

0090Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.